'Young Mother' by Robert Service


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Her baby was so full of glee,
And through the day
It laughed and babbled on her knee
In happy play.
It pulled her hair all out of curl
With noisy joy;
So peppy she was glad her girl
Was not a boy.

Then as she longed for it to sleep,
To her surprise
It just relaxed within her keep
With closing eyes.
And as it lay upon her breast
So still its breath,
So exquisite its utter rest
It looked like death.

It seemed like it had slipped away
To shadow land;
With tiny face like tinted clay
And waxen hand.
No ghost of sigh, no living look . . .
Then with an ache
Of panic fear and love she shook
Her babe awake.

Editor 1 Interpretation

Young Mother: A Literary Analysis

Are you looking for a poem that captures the essence of motherhood? A piece of literature that can tug at your heartstrings and make you appreciate the sacrifices of being a parent? Look no further than Robert Service's "Young Mother." In this classic poem, Service paints a vivid picture of a woman's journey into motherhood and the joys and hardships that come with it.

Theme and Message

At its core, "Young Mother" is a poem about the transformative power of motherhood. The speaker, presumably a man observing the young mother and her child from a distance, marvels at the physical changes the woman has undergone since giving birth. Her body, once slender and graceful, is now marked by the trials of pregnancy and childbirth. Her once carefree demeanor is replaced by a sense of responsibility and devotion to her child.

Yet, despite the sacrifices and difficulties that come with motherhood, the young mother in Service's poem is filled with love and pride for her child. She sings to her baby, cradles him in her arms, and watches him as he sleeps. In these moments, the poem suggests, the young mother finds a sense of joy and purpose that transcends the challenges of parenthood.

Imagery and Language

One of the most striking aspects of "Young Mother" is the vivid imagery that Service uses to describe the young mother and her child. From the "pale, worn face" of the woman to the "little, pink feet" of the baby, every detail is crafted with care and attention.

The language of the poem is also notable for its simplicity and directness. Service eschews elaborate metaphors and abstract language in favor of a clear, straightforward style. This choice allows the poem to convey its message with clarity and emotional impact.

Historical and Cultural Context

To fully appreciate "Young Mother," it is important to consider the historical and cultural context in which it was written. Service was a prolific poet who wrote extensively about the rugged landscapes and people of the Canadian North. His work often celebrated the pioneering spirit and toughness of his subjects.

In this context, "Young Mother" stands out as a departure from Service's usual themes. The poem is a tender and empathetic portrait of a woman whose struggles and triumphs are not defined by physical strength or endurance. Instead, the poem suggests, it is the emotional and spiritual aspects of motherhood that make it such a transformative experience.

Conclusion

"Young Mother" is a timeless poem that captures the beauty and complexity of motherhood. Through its vivid imagery, direct language, and empathetic portrayal of the young mother, the poem speaks to the joys and challenges of parenting in a way that resonates with readers of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you are a parent yourself or simply seeking a powerful piece of literature, "Young Mother" is a poem that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation

Young Mother: A Poem of Love and Sacrifice

Robert Service, the renowned poet, has left an indelible mark on the world of literature with his powerful and evocative poetry. Among his many works, the poem "Young Mother" stands out as a masterpiece that captures the essence of motherhood and the sacrifices that come with it. In this analysis, we will explore the themes, imagery, and language used in the poem to understand its deeper meaning and significance.

The poem "Young Mother" is a poignant portrayal of a mother's love for her child and the sacrifices she makes to ensure their well-being. The poem begins with the speaker describing a young mother who is "tired and pale" from the demands of motherhood. Despite her exhaustion, she continues to care for her child, singing lullabies and rocking him to sleep. The speaker notes that the mother's love for her child is "stronger than death" and that she would do anything to protect him.

The theme of sacrifice is central to the poem, as the mother is depicted as giving up her own needs and desires for the sake of her child. The speaker notes that the mother's "heart is aching" and that she is "longing for rest," but she continues to care for her child without complaint. This selflessness is further emphasized in the lines, "She's given up all that she had / To give her baby the best." The mother's sacrifice is not just physical but also emotional, as she puts her own happiness on hold to ensure her child's well-being.

The imagery used in the poem is powerful and evocative, adding depth and emotion to the words. The image of the young mother "rocking her babe to sleep" is a familiar one, evoking feelings of warmth and comfort. The image of the mother's "aching heart" and her "tears that fall like rain" convey the depth of her emotions and the pain she feels at having to sacrifice so much. The use of the word "pale" to describe the mother's appearance adds to the sense of exhaustion and weariness that she feels.

The language used in the poem is simple yet effective, conveying the emotions and themes with clarity and power. The repetition of the phrase "young mother" throughout the poem emphasizes the central role of motherhood in the speaker's mind. The use of the word "baby" instead of "child" or "infant" adds to the sense of tenderness and love that the mother feels for her child. The use of the phrase "stronger than death" to describe the mother's love is particularly striking, emphasizing the depth and intensity of her feelings.

The poem "Young Mother" is a powerful and moving portrayal of motherhood and the sacrifices that come with it. Through its themes, imagery, and language, the poem captures the essence of a mother's love for her child and the selflessness that comes with it. The poem is a testament to the strength and resilience of mothers everywhere, who give so much of themselves for the sake of their children.

In conclusion, Robert Service's poem "Young Mother" is a masterpiece of poetry that captures the essence of motherhood and the sacrifices that come with it. Through its themes, imagery, and language, the poem conveys the depth of a mother's love for her child and the selflessness that comes with it. The poem is a tribute to all mothers, who give so much of themselves for the sake of their children, and a reminder of the power of love and sacrifice.

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